Gwen Michael Goodman

Gwen Michael Goodman, 73, of Lexington, NC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept 29, 2024 with loved ones by his side. Gwen was born November 28, 1950 to parents Ned and Maxine Goodman. A native of Lexington, after graduating high school, he attended High Point University and then enlisted in the Army. He completed basic training at Fort Jackson, SC, and after scoring high on tests, he was selected to attend the U.S. Army Security Agency Training Center and School at Fort Devens, MA. He served in the Vietnam War and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan working in the Intelligence Agency until 1976. While in the Army he was also in charge of the Arts and Crafts department, making many wood-working signs for the base. Gwen was an avid photographer and he managed chemical photo lab development and retouching studios for many furniture companies in High Point, NC and other commercial businesses nationwide. In 1979, Gwen and his former wife, Melinda Morton, welcomed a son, Craig Michael Goodman. Gwen was a great dad and cherished his son. As Craig grew older, Gwen shared his love of photography, trains, cars, camping and the outdoors. They spent many weekends chasing and photographing trains in the southeast. Gwen was talented with his hands and took a lot of pleasure in building or constructing anything. He also loved animals, especially cats, and was affectionately known as “Catdaddy” by his friends. He treated each animal like the valuable family member they were. A faithful father and friend, Gwen was a sweet soul, always ready to lend a helping hand and make people laugh with his wit and humor. He wanted to make sure everyone he came in contact with felt good and left with a smile. We couldn’t have asked for a more loving father, grandfather, and friend, and he will be missed every day by all those who knew him. Gwen was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ned and Maxine Goodman, and is survived by his son, Craig Goodman (wife, Leanne) of Greensboro and granddaughter, Mikenna Goodman of Yadkinville. The family will hold visitation at Piedmont Funeral Home in Lexington, NC on Friday, Oct 4, from 5pm-7pm and a private memorial service at a later time. In remembrance of Gwen’s life and love of cats, any charitable donations made to North Davidson Veterinary Hospital would be greatly appreciated.